The Undying Charm of Frank Sinatra’s “That’s Life”: A Look at the Meaning Behind the Song
Introduction
Frank Sinatra, the legendary “Voice,” needs no introduction. Known for his iconic, smooth, and effortless voice, Sinatra’s music has become a cultural touchstone in American music that still resonates with people till date. One of his most iconic songs, “That’s Life,” is a musical masterpiece that has not only stood the test of time but has also left an unshakeable impact on music fans across the globe. So, what is the meaning behind this iconic song?
The Birth of “That’s Life”
“That’s Life” was born in 1963 when the great Ole Blue Eyes was going through a rough patch in his life. After a string of unsuccessful performances and bad reviews, Sinatra wasn’t sure whether to continue making music at all. In 1964, while on the set of “Marriage on the Rocks,” Sinatra heard a demo of “That’s Life” which was originally intended for a commercial. Inspired by the lyrics, Sinatra connected with the song’s message of resilience and feeling blue about life.
The Lyrics of “That’s Life”
The song was written by Dean Kay and Kelly Gordon and tells a story of overcoming the peaks and valleys that life throws at us. The lyrics begin with a statement of acceptance, “That’s life/ That’s what all the people say/ You’re riding high in April/ Shot down in May.” The lyrics then go on to speak about how life can be an emotional rollercoaster, where one must accept the “ups and downs of life” as a part of the natural course of things. In the end, the song offers a message of hope for all those who are facing similar adversities in their own lives. “But I won’t let it get me down/ ‘Cause this fine old world, it keeps spinning around.”
The Legacy of “That’s Life”
“That’s Life” became an instant hit and has since become one of the most iconic songs by Frank Sinatra. The song has been featured in several films, commercials, and TV shows, including The Sopranos, Casino, and New York, New York. “That’s Life” has been covered by over 100 artists including Michael Buble, James Brown, and Aretha Franklin. The song has also been featured in several sports events, including the opening sequence of the 2021 Super Bowl, which drew millions of viewers.
The Broader Significance of “That’s Life”
The message of resilience and hope in “That’s Life” resonates with people across the world. The song reminds us that we are not alone in our struggles and that we can all relate to the lyrics in some way. In fact, according to a study conducted by the British Academy of Sound Therapy, 89% of the 7,500 respondents in the study reported that listening to music helped them deal with negative emotions.
In Conclusion
“That’s Life” is a timeless classic that continues to touch the hearts of people across the world. The song’s lyrics hold a universal message that speaks to us all, reminding us of the resilience of the human spirit. In this ever-changing and unpredictable world, “That’s Life” serves as a reminder that we must accept both the good and the bad, and keep on pushing forward. As Frank Sinatra once said, “The best revenge is massive success,” and “That’s Life” is an ode to that sentiment.
